GARY VINES was killed in a crash during qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix.
The Colchester rider got involved in an accident on his first lap of the opening session at Ballagarey in Glen Vine.
The session was suspended while emergency personnel dealt with the crash.
Vines, 33, died as a result of his injuries, according to the organizers.
A statement read: “It is with a heavy heart that the Manx Grand Prix can confirm the loss of Gary Vines, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident in the first qualifying session of the 2023 event.
“Everyone involved in the organisation of the Manx Grand Prix would like to express their deepest sympathies to Gary’s family, his partner, his loved ones, and friends.
“Gary was also a skilled off-road rider, and had contested the notorious Red Bull Romaniacs hard enduro rallye.
“Gary was a well-loved and respected member of the paddock and his peers will fondly remember a skilled and stylish racer with an impressive racing CV.
“The loss of Gary will be felt deeply by all.”
Vines made his debut at the Manx Gran Prix in 2015 and won the Newcomers B Race.
He then finished on the podium in the 2018 Lightweight Race, as well as in the top ten in the Classic TT.
And news of Wines’ death spread fast as tributes were made to him on social media.
One person tweeted: “RIP Gary Vines, an extremely talented two-stroke racer, former Newcomers B Manx GP race winner. Thoughts with his family and friends.”
A second wrote: “Such sad news from #IOM #ManxGP. When you here of a red flag incident especially at a place like Ballagarey you hope for the best.
“He was doing something he clearly loved Ride high.”
Another said: “Such awful news from the Manx Grand Prix… Godspeed, Gary Vines.”
